Export incubator launched to support S.African SMEs

The JCCI and Standard Bank have launched an export incubator to drive foreign trade for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

“Exporting is a complicated process with many pitfalls for the unwary and with constantly changing legislation it can seem like a minefield. While exporting can open up substantial opportunities for businesses, we have seen how difficult it is for the novice exporter and how costly their mistakes can be and it is for this reason, we welcome this opportunity to support and train SME exporters,” said Fay Mukkadam, president of the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce (JCCI).

The incubator will offer black South African entrepreneurs a three-year programme which includes general business instruction and comprehensive export training compiled by industry experts.

They will also be introduced to exhibitions and trade missions, as well as valuable local and international contacts.

“The benefits of exporting can be substantial – in fact, if done correctly, the benefits can far outweigh the costs. We invite Gauteng SMEs that have been running a business successfully for at least two years, and who believe that their product or service could be exported, to contact the Chamber – as the induction process will commence in November 2014,” added Mukaddam.